FAMReports Opportunity Desk-July 2025
Young changemakers across the globe are being called to act. The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), in collaboration with the International Secretariat for Water, has launched the third edition of the 1 Million Youth Actions Challenge (1MYAC). The initiative invites passionate youth aged 18 to 35 to submit sustainability-focused projects addressing some of the world’s most urgent environmental and development issues.
The challenge offers funding support of up to 5000 Canadian dollars (approximately 2900 CHF) to selected youth-led projects, along with technical mentorship and visibility on the international stage.
About the 1 Million Youth Actions Challenge
The 1MYAC is a global youth engagement campaign designed to inspire and support young leaders to implement local solutions with global impact. This year’s challenge highlights community-driven action in the following key areas:
Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6)
Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12)
Climate Action (SDG 13)
Life on Land (SDG 15)
In response to rising global concerns, the 2025 edition puts additional focus on:
Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)
The fight against plastic pollution
Applicants are encouraged to integrate innovative, actionable, and community-relevant solutions in these domains to qualify for the funding and mentorship package.
Recommended: MEST Africa Launches 12 Month AI Incubation Program for West African Entrepreneurs
What You Will Gain
If selected, your project will receive:
Up to 5000 Canadian dollars in financial support to pilot or scale your idea
Technical guidance and mentorship from sustainability experts
Access to a global platform of young leaders and climate advocates
International visibility through the program’s communication and media networks
This challenge is more than just a funding opportunity. It is a movement to inspire and empower young people to lead sustainable change in their communities and regions.
Who Can Apply
The challenge is open to young people aged 18 to 35 from any country worldwide. Applicants should be:
Passionate about sustainability and climate action
Capable of developing or leading a project addressing at least one of the target SDGs
Committed to executing the proposed idea in 2025 or early 2026
Able to demonstrate the potential for impact and community engagement
Applicants can apply as individuals or teams, and early stage ideas are welcome, provided they are well thought out and achievable.
Focus Areas and Project Examples
Projects may cover a wide range of interventions, including but not limited to:
Waste reduction campaigns and circular economy solutions
Water conservation and safe sanitation awareness
Eco-friendly farming and reforestation
Plastic clean up drives and plastic-free alternatives
DRR education and community preparedness initiatives
Recommended: Lester B Pearson Scholarships Open for 2025 Fully Funded Study at University of Toronto
Priority will be given to inclusive, youth-led projects that promote sustainability while empowering local populations.
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by August 15, 2025.
All proposals should clearly define the project goals, methodology, timeline, and budget. Successful applicants will be notified in late 2025, with funding disbursement and implementation set to begin shortly after.
Applications must be submitted through the official 1MYAC platform.
Why You Should Apply
In a time of rising climate crises and environmental emergencies, youth have emerged as frontline innovators and changemakers. The 1 Million Youth Actions Challenge is your opportunity to move from concern to contribution—transforming your ideas into measurable impact.
With funding, guidance, and global exposure, this challenge offers young leaders a real opportunity to change their communities and influence international development.
Submit your application before August 15, 2025 and be part of the change.
